No Excuse For Not Looking Good
One of the first things you notice in Buenos Aires – OK, one of the first things I noticed – is how attractive the people are.
And not just good looking – really put together too. Women and men. Young and old. Taxi drivers and ladies who lunch.
I was already feeling a bit self-conscious, having worn the same clothes for about six weeks. Walking through the Recoleta I felt positively dowdy.
I finally had a chance to ask someone about this rather delicate subject when our landlord came to return the security deposit we left for our first apartment.
She appeared to be in her late fifties, trim, with a stylish haircut and expensive taste in clothes. She had the presence of a person used to having money and getting what she wanted. Her English was quite good.
After a bit of small talk I felt I had an opening to ask the question that had been nagging me: “Is it my imagination, or is everyone in this city very attractive?”
She forced a tight smile and looked me up and down.
My shirt tail was out, my pants stained, my hair not combed. I hadn’t shaved for about three days.
“Well,” she said. “There’s no excuse for not looking good.” Her comment felt more like a suggestion than an insult.
As we walked around the city that afternoon, passing one attractive, well-groomed porteno after another, I kept thinking about what our landlady had said.
The people in Buenos Aires weren’t chasing eternal youth or cover-girl perfection through plastic surgery, botox and liposuction. But they did take pride in their appearance and made an effort to look the best they could.
The next day we decided that since we’re in Buenos Aires for a month, we’d better kick off the road dust and try to show some Argentine style.
After all, excuses are for losers.
8 comments
I can totally relate!! Since we travel on bikes, we carry VERY little in the way of clothes, and we frequently can’t wash them for a week or more. Many days, we can’t manage a shower. In other words, we get pretty darn grimy sometimes!! It seems like I am ALWAYS feeling downright dowdy – but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I can’t wait to get to Argentina – I’ve heard so much about it. Of course, it’ll take us two years to get there…
Have fun!
Nancy
http://www.familyonbikes.org
Interesting story! Enjoy your stay there and I’ll be following along.
Wow –I think it’s time to clean my closet and check out some sales-I’ve had the same look for 20 years.
A month in Buenos Aires –sigh –looking forward to tagging along
Ken
Ken
OK. That’s it. I’m heading up to Target for a new pair of sweatpants.
Does this mean Dani can get new pants? 🙂 We heard she is sick of the khakis. Do we have to send you a nail for her to snag the old ones on? Simeone
Be proud of who you are! But make yourself pretty too!
I love the last line!! And I LOVED BA. Have a some steak and wine for me in that cosmopolitan sultry city!
LL
Hey D,Ca,Co&Cr’s!
Wow you are so right! It’s soooo important to fit in with a culture when you travel, and teach your kids the same! I really can’t understand people who don’t make an effort with another culture and think the rest of the world is just like Disney world! Well done! Holding my breath for your next instalment, good job for me you write so regularly!